Meet Emem Emmanuel
We had the good fortune of connecting with Emem Emmanuel and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Emem, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I started my own photography business, it was a mix of passion and opportunity that drove me. I joined yearbook in my sophomore year of high school and it really opened my eyes to how much I loved capturing moments and telling stories through images. As I gained experience, I realized I could turn this passion into something more—a real business. A thought came into mind, “Why not turn this into something more?” I saw an opportunity to not only improve my skills but also to start making a name for myself while still in high school. The idea of building something of my own, especially at such a young age, was both exciting and empowering. So, I took the leap and started my business. It wasn’t just about making money; it was about doing what I loved and sharing it with others.. It felt like a natural progression from photography being a hobby to being a real business and I was excited to see where it could take me.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is all about capturing genuine moments and emotions, whether it’s through senior portraits, family sessions, or special events. What sets me apart is my ability to make people feel comfortable in front of the camera, allowing their true personalities to shine through. I strive to create images that are not just beautiful, but that also tell a story and hold meaning for those in them.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come since starting my business in high school. It wasn’t easy, especially balancing schoolwork with running a business, but I was determined to make it work. There were times when I doubted myself, especially when things didn’t go as planned or when I faced unexpected challenges. But I learned that persistence and a willingness to adapt are key.
One lesson I’ve learned along the way is the importance of believing in yourself, even when others may not see your vision. It’s easy to get discouraged, and feel not good enough when people tend to doubt you just because you’re young, but knowing your worth and staying focused on your goals makes all the difference.
What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s rooted in passion and authenticity. My journey started with a love for photography and a desire to capture life’s special moments, and that’s what continues to drive me. My brand isn’t just about taking photos; it’s about capturing real moments and creating lasting memories.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When it comes to my favorite spots in Houston, I love having a day at Eleanor Tinsley Park. The view of the city skyline is amazing, and it’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. One of my favorite spots to eat is Brio at CityCentre which serves one of the best italian foods, and the atmosphere is always vibrant. To top off the night, I would also have a night out scootering around downtown. The city really comes alive at night with all the lights and energy, and it’s a fun way to experience Houston in a different way.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I definitely want to give a huge shoutout to my parents and my manager Linda Benjamin. My parents have always been incredibly supportive, not just emotionally but also in helping me navigate the logistics of my business, like taking me to my various locations to ensure my safety. They believed in my vision and have been by my side through every challenge and triumph, helping me to grow both personally and professionally. Their endless support has encouraged me to pursue my passion, and they have been my biggest cheerleaders every step of the way.
Linda Benjamin, my manager, has played a crucial role in helping me navigate the business side of things. Her guidance and expertise have been invaluable, and she’s been there to help me make smart decisions and grow my business. I’m incredibly grateful to both my parents and Linda for their unwavering support and encouragement. They’ve been key to my journey, and I couldn’t have done it without them.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100094619883727/
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
